Most of the iron in the human body is carried by a protein called hemoglobin, which is found in the red blood cells and used to transport oxygen to the tissues. It is also found in a protein called myoglobin, used to carry oxygen to the muscles, and in some enzymes that facilitate biochemical reactions. There are also proteins in the body, largely regulated by the intestines, that store iron for future needs. It's when this "storage" process goes awry that problems occur causing a buildup of extra iron in the body.
Friedreich's Ataxia
Friedreich's ataxia (FA) is a disease that causes iron overload in the mitochondria, the human body's source of energy. FA is a hereditary disease that causes brain and cardiac disorders, causing early death. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, essentially, FA reduces the amount of frataxin, a mitochondrial protein that regulates iron utilization. The release of iron is severely reduced, making the cell susceptible to free radicals, produced when excess iron reacts with oxygen. The body can't utilize this iron, thereby storing it and causing toxic levels that obstruct the mitochondrial pathways, altering cell respiration and energy production.
Hemochromatosis
Hemochromatosis, a genetic disorder, causes an accumulation of iron in the body causing iron overload. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hemochromatosis predominately causes damage to the liver, heart and pancreas. Iron overload causes liver failure, liver cancer and cirrhosis, arrhythmia and heart failure and diabetes, all diseases that diminish the body's ability to function normally. Symptoms include fatigue, joint and abdominal pain, overall weakness and weight loss. To check the amount of iron in your body, a doctor will order two simple blood tests: transferrin saturation and a serum ferritin test. If the tests come back positive, your physician will prescribe scheduled phlebotomy as a treatment plan.
Blood Transfusions
According to the National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute, iron overload can also be the result of too many blood transfusions, providing a constant source of fresh red blood cells and iron. The body normally uses the iron it takes in and stores small amounts, but when there is a constant fresh supply, the excess iron in each transfusion causes unhealthy levels and iron overload. Iron level and organ function should be checked regularly to prevent cellular damage, which can be irreversible. Chelation therapy can be used to help remove small amounts of excess iron. Your physician will advise you not to take vitamin and mineral supplements with iron while undergoing transfusion therapy. Chelation therapy removes small amounts of excess iron, but cannot effectively remove toxic levels in a short time.
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